Reuben D’souza Roll No.

46 TE-A CMPN

Aim: To study security tools Kismet and Netstumbler

Theory: Kismet and NetStumbler are both tools used in the field of wireless network
security, particularly for assessing and securing Wi-Fi networks. Here's an overview of each
tool:

Kismet:

Kismet is an open-source wireless network detector, sniffer, and intrusion detection

system.Purpose: It is primarily used for detecting and analyzing wireless LANs
(Local Area Networks).

Features:

1. Packet Sniffing: Kismet can capture and analyze data packets transmitted over
wireless networks.
2. Hidden Networks: It can identify hidden networks (SSID not broadcasted) by
actively sniffing the air for wireless activity.
3. Logging and Reporting: Kismet logs information about detected networks, including
SSIDs, MAC addresses, signal strength, and encryption types. This information can
be used for network troubleshooting and security analysis.
4. Multi-Platform Support: Kismet works on various platforms, including Linux,
BSD, and Mac OS X.
5. Client/Server Architecture: It supports a client/server architecture, allowing for
distributed and remote monitoring.
6. WIDS (Wireless Intrusion Detection System): Kismet can be used as a WIDS to
identify and respond to unauthorized wireless activity.

Limitations:

1. Kismet may not be as user-friendly as some commercial tools.

2. It requires a certain level of technical expertise to configure and use
effectively.
Reuben D’souza Roll No. 46 TE-A CMPN

NetStumbler:

NetStumbler is a Windows-based tool for finding wireless networks.

Purpose: It is primarily used for wardriving, which involves moving around to detect and
locate Wi-Fi networks.

Features:

1. Network Discovery: NetStumbler scans for and displays information about

nearby wireless networks, including SSID, signal strength, and channel.
2. Signal Strength Mapping: It can be used to create signal strength maps of Wi-Fi
networks.
3. SSID Detection: NetStumbler can identify both broadcasted and hidden
SSIDs.
4. GPS Integration: It can work with a GPS receiver to map the locations of
discovered networks.

Limitations:

1. NetStumbler is primarily designed for Windows and may not work well with
other operating systems.
2. The development of NetStumbler has been discontinued, and it may not be as up-to-
date or feature-rich as newer tools.

Both Kismet and NetStumbler can be valuable tools for assessing and securing wireless
networks. However, users should be aware of the specific strengths and limitations of each
tool and consider their own requirements and expertise when choosing between them.
Additionally, as technology evolves, it's important to stay updated on the latest tools and
practices in the field of wireless network security.
Reuben D’souza Roll No. 46 TE-A CMPN

Conclusion:

In summary, Kismet and NetStumbler play crucial roles in wireless network security, with
Kismet standing out for its versatility, supporting multiple platforms and offering extensive
features, including Wireless Intrusion Detection System (WIDS) capabilities. NetStumbler,
known for its user-friendly design, excels in wardriving scenarios and provides valuable
insights into signal strength mapping. Both tools operate on fundamental wireless security
concepts, contributing to security auditing, encryption assessment, and geospatial security.
Theoretical considerations underscore the importance of responsible tool use, ethical
considerations, and adaptation to the dynamic landscape of wireless security. Ultimately,
security professionals should choose tools based on their specific needs, technical
proficiency, and platform preferences, while staying informed and proactive in addressing
emerging threats.